U.S., U.K. launches Yemen Airstrikes with Canadian backing
On Thursday, U.S. and British forces, backed by allies including Canada, began a military action against Houthi installations in Yemen that are backed by Iran.
The Coalition Responds to Houthi Attacks on Red Sea Shipping
The purpose of the operations was to send a clear message to the Houthi group that the attacks on ships in the Red Sea would not be tolerated by the allies.
President Biden emphasises diplomacy before military action.
According to President Joe Biden, the Houthi campaign, which involved drone and missile strikes on commercial ships and started during the Israel-Hamas war, prompted the military steps, which were carried out in response to diplomatic conversations.
Coalition's First Military Action After Warning to Houthis
This marked the coalition's first military action, occurring a week after the White House and partner nations warned the Houthis to cease their attacks or face potential military intervention.
The UK Prime Minister Confirms Royal Air Force Strikes
The Royal Air Force carried out focused attacks over military bases belonging to the Houthi group, as revealed by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The participation of four fighter aircraft stationed in Cyprus was disclosed by the Defence Ministry.
Canada's Contribution and Continued Monitoring
Canada, responding to a U.S. request for support, contributed three staff officers to Operation Prosperity Guardian. The Canadian Armed Forces remain vigilant, exploring potential opportunities for further support.
The International Coalition Stands Firm on Red Sea Stability
Joining the U.S. and U.K. in a statement reaffirming their commitment to reducing tensions and safeguarding trade in the Red Sea were the governments of Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and South Korea.
Houthi Escalation Sparks Defensive Measures
The Houthi rebels launched a massive assault of drones and missiles in the Red Sea earlier this week, which prompted American and British forces to intercept 18 drones, two cruise missiles, and an anti-ship missile.
Houthi Warning and Pledge of Retaliation
A high-ranking Houthi official, Ali al-Qahoum, warned of a fierce military response to any attack on their sites. Despite the coalition's strikes, the Houthis have not provided information on damage or casualties.
Trade Route Imperilled by Houthi Actions
The Houthi assaults, initially aimed at stopping Israel's war on Hamas, now threaten a vital trade route connecting Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Approximately 12% of global trade passes through this strategic waterway.
Anticipated Response and the Coalition's Military Tactics
Officials anticipate some sort of reprisal, even though the United States expects the strikes to weaken Houthi capabilities. The operation included Tomahawk missiles launched from naval ships and a submarine, as well as fighter jets from the air force and the navy.
The international community is keeping a careful eye on events in the region, so the situation is still fluid.